Emergency Number
Namaste! Burns are a common concern in India, especially with open-flame cooking and traditional practices. While minor burns can be treated at home, knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial. Let’s understand the ways of effective home care and when to head to Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (Vydehi) for expert help.
Before we go into treatment, there are many myths floating around about burns. To clear the doubts and myths, please go through, Burning Truths: Debunking Common Myths About Burns
Burns come in various forms: scorching flame burns, scalding from hot liquids, and even electrical mishaps. Kerosene spills and festival celebrations often cause an increase in burn cases in India, particularly affecting women due to cultural clothing and kitchen duties.
In India, burns are a much more common concern than you might think. According to the World Health Organization, over 1 million people suffer moderate or severe burns every year. There are a few key reasons for this high number:
But here’s the good news: 90% of burns are often preventable with proper education and timely medical attention. That’s why organizations like the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, is working hard on initiatives like the National Programme for Prevention and Management of Trauma and Burn Injuries in the past. Today, upgrading primary care facilities at Health and Wellness Centers is a big step forward in making sure everyone has access to the care they need.
Vydehi is always here for serious burns, but for minor cases, follow these steps:
Cool It Down: Immediately run cool (not cold) tap water over the burn for 10-15 minutes. This reduces inflammation and pain.
Clean Up: Gently cleanse the area with mild soap and cool water. Pat it dry (don’t rub) and apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly, antibiotic ointment, or aloe vera.
Soothe and Protect: Cover the burn with a non-stick bandage to prevent infection. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help manage discomfort. Avoid cotton as it will stick to the burn.
Sun Safety: Once healed, shield the area from the sun with SPF 30+ sunscreen to minimize scarring.
In situations with no immediate access to clean water resources there are certain other alternatives. Remember, every second counts! Cooling the burn with any available clean liquid (like clean cloth soaked in cool water) and covering the wound with clean cloth can significantly help in the healing of the burn area.
Don’t hesitate to seek professional help at Vydehi if a minor burn shows delayed healing or worsens. Our team is equipped to provide the best possible care.
By following these tips and seeking medical attention when necessary, you can effectively treat minor burns and minimize scarring. Stay safe, and remember, Vydehi is always here for you, for healing you.
Ans: While antibiotic ointments can help prevent infection, for minor burns, petroleum jelly is a fantastic option to keep it moist and promote healing at home. Just remember to keep it clean and covered for best results. If it’s a serious burn, though, head straight to Vydehi for expert care!
Ans: Both aloe vera cream and petroleum jelly can be helpful for minor burns. Aloe vera might even speed up healing! Just keep it cool, clean, and covered with a non-stick bandage. But remember, for serious burns, Vydehi’s expert care is the best bet!
Ans: Not all burns need fancy dressings! For minor burns, a simple non-stick bandage is your friend. These dressings keep the wound clean and moist, aiding healing. Avoid cotton balls that can stick! If the burn is bigger or needs extra support, consider a wrap with a crepe bandage. But remember, for serious burns, Vydehi’s got the best dressings and expert care to get you back on track!
Ans: A first-degree burn is like a mild sunburn. It only affects the top layer of skin, making it red, sore, and dry, but no blisters. These heal up quickly at home with some TLC (tender loving care) like cool water, petroleum jelly, and a bandage. If it’s a more serious burn, remember that Vydehi is always here to help!
